Defrocked priest officiates funeral despite lifetime ban from ministry

David Tudor, a defrocked priest banned from ministry for life due to child abuse, officiated a funeral and an interment of ashes in December. This occurred despite a clear prohibition from the Church of England. The Archbishop of York confirmed Tudor's lifetime ban following a disciplinary tribunal in October. He expressed concern over Tudor's actions and emphasized the Church's commitment to safeguarding. The Diocese of Chelmsford stated they had informed funeral directors of Tudor's ban. However, Tudor was still allowed to conduct ceremonies, highlighting gaps in the Church's ability to enforce prohibitions on suspended clergy.